Combined Cadet Force

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) was formed as an Officer Training Corps (OTC) in 1906 and became an Army Cadet Force (ACF) in 1934. An Air Training Corp (ATC) Squadron was formed in 1940 and the two units combined to become a Combined Cadet Force (CCF) in 1948. A Royal Naval section was formed in 1973. The aim of the CCF is to provide a disciplined organisation within the School, enabling pupils to exercise responsibility and leadership and to learn from the services how these qualities can best be developed.

At Reigate Grammar School, the CCF is voluntary for pupils to join at the beginning of the Fourth Form and pupils normally spend four years in the Corps. The contingent commander gives a short presentation to Third Form parents in January/February and a similar meeting is held for pupils at that time. A Third Form introductory day is held in April at the Cadet Training Centre at Frimley Park for pupils who are thinking of joining the CCF. There are two Field Days (one in the autumn and the other in the summer term) which enable the cadets to visit military establishments and carry out the wider aspects of training. The parade is held on Tuesdays after school.

A biennial reviewing day also takes place, usually in May, when the School welcomes a high-ranking service officer to see the Corps at work.

All cadets will be trained in drill, first aid, weapon training, tactics and climbing. Cadets are also able to apply for scholarships in all three services. Sixth Form scholarships, cadetships and flying scholarships are available. Recently, cadets have gained Short Service Limited Commissions for their gap year before University.

The Navy section is involved in boat work, navigation, rope work and also sail at a local lake. Field days are usually spent at Portsmouth, sometimes on board our affiliated ship, HMS Norfolk.

The Army section is involved in basic fieldcraft, signals and leadership exercises. Field days are usually spent at Longmoor, Crowborough or Aldershot training centres.

The RAF Section is involved with Air Experience Flying (A.E.F.) in Bulldogs at RAF Benson, gliding at Kenley, principles of airmanship and general knowledge of the RAF.

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